They use trees and even telephone wires as a structure for support, they gather moisture and nutrients from the air around them, and they require little or no care.


 
They are usually found in the tropics but can survive anywhere that has natural light, moisture, and is temperate.


 
They are called Epiphytes. Many mosses, lichens, and ferns are Epiphytes. 

Tillandsia's, which are readily available on the internet or through local specialized nurseries such as Flowerland, can make a beautiful living arrangement, centerpiece for your table, or outdoor installation.

I picked up several Tillandsia's at Flowerland last week to try my hand at a smaller arrangement to start. They are very reasonably priced (from $1. to $5. a piece depending on their size) and virtually indestructible. 


 
I also purchased some moss ($3.) to fill in around the bases of each plant.


 
First decide on a structure to support your plants. I decided to use a piece of old grapewood, but you could also use driftwood or any substantial branch you may already have in your garden.


 
Then just decide on the placement of your Tillandsia's and use some florist wire to secure them around the branch or into the little knot hole of the wood. Be careful not to tighten the wire too much, just keep it loose but secure, so your Tillandsia won't fall off.




  

 
After you have placed and secured your plants, use your moss, and cover the bases and the wires that you used to secure them. This also adds another texture and color to your arrangement.


 
These plants make great simple indoor tablescapes, outdoor dining table arrangements, rustic, minimalist, or midcentury modern.


 
To care for them, just keep them in an environment with natural light and mist them with a spray bottle once a week.